Delhi is a fast-paced and vibrant city, full of hustle and bustle. But what many people don’t know is that there are also many people in need in the city who require help. Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to reach out and make a positive difference by volunteering in Delhi. A student volunteer program in Delhi can be an incredible way to give back while learning valuable skills.
What is the Student Volunteer Program in Delhi?
The Student Delhi volunteer job Program in Delhi (SVPD) is a unique opportunity for students to get involved in their community and make a positive impact while learning about the culture and people of India. The program provides students with an immersive experience that includes volunteering at local organizations, living with a host family, and taking part in cultural activities.
Through the SVPD, students have the chance to work with a variety of organizations that focus on issues such as education, health care, environmental sustainability, and poverty alleviation. By volunteering their time and energy, students can gain new skills and knowledge while also helping to make a difference in the lives of those they serve.
In addition to the valuable work experience, students also have the opportunity to learn about Indian culture firsthand by living with a local family. This allows them to see how Indian families live day-to-day and learn about their customs and traditions. SVPD participants also have ample opportunities to explore Delhi and all it has to offer, from its rich history and architecture to its vibrant food scene.
What are the objectives of the program?
The objectives of the Delhi Student Volunteer Program are two-fold: first, to provide participants with an opportunity to learn about and engage with the local community in Delhi; and second, to make a positive impact on the lives of those living in poverty or otherwise disadvantaged circumstances.
How does the program work?
The Delhi Student Volunteer Program (DSVP) is a partnership between the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and the Government of India’s Department of Science and Technology (DST). The program provides opportunities for Indian university students to volunteer in AAAS-affiliated science centers and museums across Delhi. Volunteers gain first-hand experience working with internationally recognized scientists, educators, and professionals while contributing to the public understanding of science.
The DSVP was established in 2010 and has since placed over 1,000 NGO volunteer jobs in Delhi in AAAS-affiliated institutions. The program runs from mid-August to mid-May each year, and applications are accepted on a rolling basis. To be eligible, applicants must be enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate degree program at a Delhi-based university at the time of application and throughout their placement. Applicants must also have a strong command of spoken English.
Once accepted into the program, volunteers are placed at one of eight AAAS-affiliated institutions:
- American Center
- British Council Library
- Nehru Planetarium
- National Museum of Natural History (NMNH)
- National Rail Museum (NRM)
- Regional Science Center (RSC) – Dwarka
- Taramandal Petrolium Complex (TPC)
Volunteers typically work 20 hours per week on a schedule that is agreed upon with their host institution. While most placements are during regular business
